GCC Over the Counter (OTC) Drugs Market

GCC Over the Counter (OTC) Drugs Market Size and Share:

The GCC over the counter (OTC) drugs market size was valued at USD 3.44 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 7.28 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.10% from 2025-2033. The market is propelled by increasing health awareness, self-medication trends, a rising population, and the prevalence of minor ailments. Expanding retail pharmacy networks, e-commerce growth, government initiatives, and demand for herbal remedies also fuel growth. Favorable regulations and urbanization further enhance accessibility and market expansion across the region, which, in turn, is increasing the GCC over the counter (OTC) drugs market share.

The GCC over-the-counter (OTC) drugs market is experiencing significant growth due to various factors. Increasing health awareness among consumers and a rising inclination toward self-medication are primary drivers. As individuals seek convenient and cost-effective solutions for minor ailments like colds, headaches, and digestive issues, the demand for OTC products has surged across the region. Technological advancements, such as mobile health apps and telemedicine, are raising consumer awareness and promoting OTC drug usage.  For instance, in October 2024, Sahatna, an integrated smartphone application created to assist locals in managing their own and their families' health, was formally introduced by the Department of Health, Abu Dhabi (DoH). Mobile health apps and telemedicine have become increasingly valuable in the OTC drugs market due to their ability to enhance accessibility, education, and convenience for consumers. Seasonal variations, particularly in the GCC’s climate, contribute to the demand for respiratory and dermatological OTC products, thereby contributing to the GCC over the counter (OTC) drugs market growth.

The expansion of retail pharmacy networks, hypermarkets, and supermarkets enhances product accessibility, while the rapid growth of e-commerce platforms supports online availability and convenience. For instance, in February 2023, Aster Pharmacy made it possible to buy prescription medications by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Talabat UAE, an online food delivery and q-commerce platform. Aster Pharmacy offers over-the-counter medications as well as health and wellness products, with delivery times of 30 minutes or less. Users of the Talabat app can upload their prescription drugs to be sent to Aster Pharmacy, where they will be delivered by Talabat in 90 minutes. Government initiatives to promote non-prescription drug sales and favorable regulatory frameworks have streamlined access to OTC medications, encouraging self-care practices, thus intensifying the GCC over the counter (OTC) drugs market demand.

GCC Over the Counter (OTC) Drugs Market Trends:

Increasing Health Awareness

Growing health awareness among consumers in the GCC is a significant driver of the OTC drugs market. As individuals become more informed about managing their health, there is a rising preference for self-medication and preventive care. For instance, in October 2023, Futura Medical PLC announced that the BinSina Pharmacy in the United Arab Emirates, the first Middle Eastern market to carry the medicine, is now offering its Eroxon product for purchase online. Eroxon is a gel-based medication that works quickly to cure erectile dysfunction. Additionally, the company has obtained regulatory permission for the treatment in Saudi Arabia, where Labatec Pharma will introduce and promote it during the fourth quarter. People are actively seeking OTC solutions for common ailments such as colds, headaches, and digestive issues, rather than relying on prescriptions. This shift toward self-care is further fueled by campaigns from healthcare organizations, media, and governments, encouraging healthier lifestyles and easier access to over-the-counter treatments, which in turn stimulates demand for OTC products across the region.

E-Commerce and Digital Solutions

The rapid growth of e-commerce platforms represent one of the key the GCC over the counter (OTC) drugs market trends. With increasing internet penetration and mobile device usage, consumers can now purchase OTC medications and health products online, ensuring convenience and accessibility. Online platforms also enable better price comparisons, consumer reviews, and quick delivery options. The integration of digital solutions, such as telemedicine and health apps, further supports the growth of the OTC market, allowing individuals to consult healthcare professionals remotely and buy OTC medications tailored to their needs. E-commerce is reshaping how consumers access OTC healthcare products, expanding the market. For instance, in March 2023, Dubai-based Quick commerce product Ourshopee.com introduced a 30-minute pharmacy delivery service in Dubai to establish new standards in the pharmacy industry through timely delivery and an easy-to-use interface.

Urbanization and Changing Lifestyles

The GCC region is experiencing rapid urbanization, which is contributing to the growth of the OTC drugs market. According to industry reports, 81.1 % of the population is urban in the UAE (9,207,088 people in 2025). As more people migrate to cities and adopt modern lifestyles, there is an increase in health concerns like stress, obesity, and chronic diseases. According to industry reports, by 2035, nearly 6.5 million adults in the United Arab Emirates—including over 4.5 million men—will be overweight or obese. Urban populations seek easy, accessible solutions for managing these conditions, often turning to OTC medications for relief. Furthermore, busy urban lives lead to time constraints, prompting the demand for convenient, over-the-counter products that can be purchased quickly and without the need for a doctor's visit, thus creating a positive GCC over the counter (OTC) drugs market outlook.

GCC Over the Counter (OTC) Drugs Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the GCC over the counter (OTC) drugs market, along with forecasts at the country and regional levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on product type, route of administration, dosage form, and distribution channel.

Analysis by Product Type:

• Cough, Cold and Flu Products
• Analgesics
• Dermatology Products
• Gastrointestinal Products
• Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements (VMS)
• Weight-loss/Dietary Products
• Ophthalmic Products
• Sleeping Aids
• Others

Cough, cold, and flu products dominate the GCC OTC drugs market due to frequent respiratory diseases propelled by shifts in climatic conditions and the prevalence of air conditioning environments. Customers are likely to go for these OTC products as a means of getting instant relief for their ailments given rising health consciousness and do-it-yourself regimes. Also, products that are different in their formulations including syrup, tablets, and lozenges are recommended to suit the various customers’ requirements. Periodic outbreaks along with increased availability of products through retail and e-commerce contribute to the global market share of this segment.

Analgesics hold a significant share in the GCC OTC drugs market owing to the high prevalence of headaches, musculoskeletal pain, and minor injuries among the region's active population. The rising trend of self-medication and easy access to pain-relief products without prescriptions drive demand. Additionally, growing awareness of generic alternatives and innovations in fast-acting formulations enhance their appeal. Frequent consumer demand for effective and readily available solutions solidifies analgesics' position in this competitive market segment.

Dermatology products lead the GCC OTC market due to the region's climate, characterized by extreme heat and dryness, which triggers frequent skin-related issues. Sunburn, dry skin, and acne remain popular categories that are expected to fuel the segment's growth. The availability of more and varied cosmetic products as well as a growing consumer interest in skin care products coupled with awareness of natural and herbal cures will also complement this trend. The broadening of the availability through retail stores and e-shops guarantees access and health and beauty products concern and spending guarantees the leading position of the segment in the OTC drugs market.

Analysis by Route of Administration:

• Oral
• Parenteral
• Topical
• Others

The oral segment has the largest share in the GCC OTC drugs market owing to their portability, ease of administration, and major consumer preference. Tablets, capsules, and syrups are particularly favored because of accurate dosing and their common use in the general dispensing of various pharmacies and retail stores. This segment comprises various therapeutic categories including analgesics, respiratory and digestive system products responding to the self-medication needs of the area. Also, improved taste-masked formulations and rapid-onset oral liquids expand the customer value proposition. The growing demand for generic drugs and increasing e-commerce penetration further strengthen the dominance of oral products in the GCC OTC drugs market.

Analysis by Dosage Form:

• Tablets and Capsules
• Liquids
• Ointments
• Others

Tablets and capsules hold the largest share of the GCC OTC drugs market due to their convenience, precise dosing, and extended shelf life. These are chosen by consumers for various ailments such as pains, common influenza and flu, and gastrointestinal problems. They are easily portable due to their small size and can easily be stored in a suitcase or handbag. To increase compliance, manufacturers provide modified products like quick-dissolve soluble tablets and soft gelatin capsules. Moreover, tablets and capsules are economical, readily obtainable, have increasing e-commerce and retail structures, and are backed by strong hold in the GCC OTC drugs market.

Analysis by Distribution Channel:

• Hospital Pharmacies
• Retail Pharmacies
• Online Pharmacies
• Others

The hospital pharmacies dominate the over the counter (OTC) market share because of their reputation, convenience, and the wide range of available products. These pharmacies are the primary points where good OTC medications are available to the public since they provide direct consumer engagement and advice from practitioners. The high healthcare services penetration helps hospital pharmacies to always attract several patients seeking care services and medication. Also, the increasing frequency of lifestyle diseases and the enhanced medical facilities in the GCC countries lead to a higher demand for OTC products in the hospital chains. Hospital pharmacies have remained favorites for consumers in terms of ease of access, originality, and confidence in receiving professional advice, boosting their market growth.

Country Analysis:

• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Qatar
• Kuwait
• Oman
• Bahrain

Saudi Arabia lead the market with around 47.5% of the market share in 2024. Saudi Arabia represents the largest share of the GCC OTC market due to changing consumer habits regarding health awareness, and increased inclination for self-medication.  The increasing population in the region, and the development of the tendency towards the frequent treatment of minor illnesses, such as flu, headaches, and allergies, further shifts towards the focus on preventive healthcare are contributing to the market growth. New retail pharmacy outlets, government initiatives toward the availability of OTC products, and a strong e-commerce presence improve market access. Also, consumers seeking products with herbal and natural ingredients correspond to local culture. Saudi Arabia’s economic growth, urbanization, and favorable regulatory changes supporting OTC drugs further boost the market, making it a key driver in the GCC region.

Competitive Landscape:

The GCC over-the-counter (OTC) drugs market is highly competitive, driven by increasing consumer health awareness and demand for self-medication. Key players include international pharmaceutical giants such as GlaxoSmithKline, Johnson & Johnson, and Sanofi, alongside regional firms like Julphar and SPIMACO. The market is fragmented, with competition intensifying due to the introduction of generic alternatives and diversified product portfolios. Strategic initiatives such as marketing campaigns, partnerships with retail chains, and digital distribution channels are shaping the landscape. Regulatory frameworks, growing e-commerce penetration, and demand for herbal and natural remedies further influence competition in this dynamic and evolving market.

Latest News and Developments:

• In December 2024, Aster DM announced an expansion unit in the GCC region in the healthcare domain for a $ 250 million investment. The deal will be focusing mainly on hospitals and medical centers.
• In December 2024, Mubadala Investment Company announced its expansion of its healthcare sector in the UAE with the acquisition of an 80 per cent stake in Global Medical Supply Chain (GMSC) and Al Ittihad Drug Store (IDS) from GlobalOne Healthcare Holding (GHH).

GCC Over the Counter (OTC) Drugs Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the GCC over the counter (OTC) drugs market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the GCC over the counter (OTC) drugs market.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the GCC over the counter (OTC) drugs industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.